It has finally happened. After over twenty years of campaigning by the island community, construction on the new pier at Inis Oírr has begun. A landing barge arrived at An Trá this week, machinery is on the ground, and work is under way. We could not be more pleased.
A Long Time Coming
If you’ve ever arrived at Inis Oírr on a blustery day, watching the pier come into view through Atlantic spray and wondering how the swell might make things interesting, you’ll understand why this matters so much to everyone on the island.
Easterly and north-easterly winds have always made An Chéibh difficult, and sometimes downright dangerous. Ferries have had to turn back. The planning for this project started back in 2008. Unfortunately the financial crash to put a stop to it before it even began. It has been a long road since then, and the arrival of machinery at the beach this week really is something to celebrate.
What’s Being Built
The works will extend the pier by 90 metres and add a breakwater to absorb wave energy and protect the harbour during storms. Rocks are being dredged to give safe navigation width at the new harbour entrance. The result will be a harbour that can accommodate more ferries, in more conditions, more safely.
When it is finished in 2027, Inis Oírr will have the infrastructure its community deserves and its visitors need. Better access, safer landings, and much more reliable ferry services year-round.
Business as Usual
Things are carrying on as normal on the island throughout the construction period. The works have been carefully planned to avoid any interruption to daily activities. Ferries are operating as normal from Doolin and Rossaveal. When you step off the boat, you’ll find us exactly where we always are, right at the pier, ready to set you up with a bike.
Come and See It for Yourself. This is a moment in the island’s history. If you are planning a visit this season, you will be here at an interesting time. The limestone walls, O’Brien’s Castle on the hill, the Plassey out on the rocks – all exactly as it should be. And by the time you come back in a year or two, An Chéibh will be transformed.
We are open for bookings now for the season ahead and looking forward to seeing you.